From being also-rans in 1998, Arena Essex Hammers have become one of the hottest teams in the Premier League.

Almost certain of reaching the end of season play-offs, Peter Thorogood's seven are already in the semi-final of the Knockout Cup, were runners-up in the Best Pairs and on Sunday at Peterborough take their place in the finals of the Fours.

Not since the all-conquering side of the early 1990s have the Thurrock side enjoyed such prominence and that's been reflected in increased attendances at the Purfleet circuit.

Tonight (Friday), the Hammers defend a ten-match unbeaten home record against rock-bottom Workington.

"This will not be an easy meeting for us," Thorogood insisted. "The Comets have Arena track experts in Carl Stonehewer and Brent Werner, while the recent addition of the Swede, Peter Carlsson, has made them a great deal stronger."

Hammers make changes to their riding line-up because of the new green-sheet averages. Roger Lobb, who blew an engine guesting for Stoke at Exeter on Monday, moves to No 2; Matt Read is at No 4; John Wainwright drops to reserve at No 6; and Gary Corbett rides at No 7.

Banger racing: All eyes on Layton

Canvey youngster Vic Bilkey will be in action at Essex Arena on Sunday as part of an action-packed Sunday's racing.

Eleven-year-old Bilkey will join more than 30 ten to 16-year-olds in their mini stock cars.

However, all eyes will be on Upminster's Ray Layton, 13, who won last month's ITV-televised final.

The penultimate qualifier for the £1000 Rising Stars Final will see more than 70 banger racers going for glory in the series aimed at those beginning their careers or searching for the winning formula.

Completing the bill are the two-litre, rear-wheel drive PRI hot-rods.

It all starts at 12.30pm with racing from 2pm. Entry is £7.50 for adults and £3.50 for under-14s and pensioners.

Converted for the new archive on 19 November 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.